Never to be forgotten!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Soldiers don't cry
Soldiers don't cry. Such a sad day here on the FOB. We gathered today to celebrate the life of and say good bye to a great man and friend, a fearless soldier, an outstanding leader, father of four. The tragedy of war. These are the times that really remind me that I'm in a war zone and people die...even people that I know.
The memorial was rehearsed and planned for 50 people. Silly Commanders! These are the good ol' USA boys & girls. We do nothing alone. We support each other and the outsiders look in and wonder why we cry and race to the rescue for total strangers. They don't understand that as an American you are in a caring, special family composed of all nationalities and sexes. Your hurt is my hurt. Your pain is my pain. We are there!
So most of the camp attended and contractors too... which brings me to another point- Soldiers really don't cry. I was bawling my eyes out, (which is typical for me), but so were the guns for hire who have seen it all. I saw a tear escape from a kid from the deceased man's battalion and I passed him a napkin. He simply shook it off and straightened up. It made me proud in a strange way. Do I really want some guy who is an emotional wreck guarding me at night. Or can I cut them a little slack and realize that their hurt is my hurt, their pain is my pain. I am a team player so, ok....Soldiers don't cry, but I do. I'll cry for you.
Say a little prayer for us today. For the family of the guy who gave his life unselfishly so that others may have a better life and be free from tyranny. For all who serve and protect our great nation. And for the people who live in this land who face hardship and fight everyday just to live their lives free.
The memorial was rehearsed and planned for 50 people. Silly Commanders! These are the good ol' USA boys & girls. We do nothing alone. We support each other and the outsiders look in and wonder why we cry and race to the rescue for total strangers. They don't understand that as an American you are in a caring, special family composed of all nationalities and sexes. Your hurt is my hurt. Your pain is my pain. We are there!
So most of the camp attended and contractors too... which brings me to another point- Soldiers really don't cry. I was bawling my eyes out, (which is typical for me), but so were the guns for hire who have seen it all. I saw a tear escape from a kid from the deceased man's battalion and I passed him a napkin. He simply shook it off and straightened up. It made me proud in a strange way. Do I really want some guy who is an emotional wreck guarding me at night. Or can I cut them a little slack and realize that their hurt is my hurt, their pain is my pain. I am a team player so, ok....Soldiers don't cry, but I do. I'll cry for you.
Say a little prayer for us today. For the family of the guy who gave his life unselfishly so that others may have a better life and be free from tyranny. For all who serve and protect our great nation. And for the people who live in this land who face hardship and fight everyday just to live their lives free.
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